Collections are a popular hobby with many people. Everything from buttons to baseball caps to bent license plates have a place somewhere. Increasingly popular as collectible items these days however are the vast array of angel figurines to be found online and in stores worldwide.

If you’re thinking of starting a collection–for yourself or as a gift for a loved one–you can find figurines and other angel themed collectibles just about anywhere and in a price range to suit most budgets. Knowing where to start in the massive angel-themed jungle can be a problem though. And perhaps it doesn’t really matter. But, for some, a little knowledge can be helpful in sorting through the many types and styles available.

Size; contrary to popular lore, it can matter. Angel figurines come in all sizes from compact purse and pocket angels to child-sized garden angels happy to glorify your garden in all seasons and weathers. In between are mid to large sized figures made from a variety of materials and designed to grace curio cabinets or any other spare space in your home.

Many angels are made from porcelain by artisans who do nothing else. Models are created from clay and used to make first a reverse mold and then a true mold for the casting of the actual figure. The detail worked into these is amazing. Once free of the mold the porcelain figures are painted by skilled craftsman to give each one its individual features and personality. Often these figures are also given a name and even a short biography.

From Germany, you can purchase wax angel figurines, carefully painted and dressed in red velvet. For the garden, concrete and resin angels are durable and after a few years outside they take on a rugged appearance that makes them look part of the landscape.

There are guardian angels, angels of love, Christmas angels, wedding, purity, seraphim, African American, Irish, inspirational…the list is seemingly endless. Where you start is a matter of personal choice and as you research and learn more about the hobby you will find your particular niche and preferred type of angel.

If you really get interested in collecting angel figurines, you will most likely fall into a bit of buying and selling. Seraphim angels in particular have a huge secondary market. Private individuals trade them online for a profit. Values vary but a limited edition angel originally retailing for around $100 can easily resell for $1000. It all depends on the number in the edition, the beauty and craftsmanship of the particular angel and, of course, the number of people interested in purchasing the figure.

Personally, I have managed to own two guardian angels; a pewter purse angel given by a friend on parting and a small featureless glass figurine which sits on my desk and watches me type from under its halo, which was a gift from my mother-in-law. Without even trying I seem to be starting a collection. I have no doubt that over time my collection will increase, with no effort from me. With a little more effort, your collection can grow larger and faster and fill your house and garden with the peace and tranquility of heavenly faces.

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